Inverventional Radiologists and Gynecologists - What you need to know:

Q: What is an interventional
radiologist?

A: Interventional
radiologists (IRs) are specially-trained doctors who
use X-rays and other imaging techniques to "see" inside
the body while they guide narrow tubes (catheters)
and other very small instruments through the blood
vessels and other pathways of the body to treat a
variety of medical disorders without surgery. One
of these procedures is a less invasive treatment for
uterine fibroids called Uterine Fibroid Embolization
(UFE) or Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE). IR's work
in collaboration with gynecologists to provide treatment
for symptomatic fibroids. Below is a list of IR's
who specialize in UFE.

Q: What is
a gynecologist?

A: Gynecologists
(Gyn's) are doctors with special skills, training,
and education in the management of women's health
issues. The care provided by them can range from a
basic annual gynecologic examination to complex surgery.
Women who have been diagnosed with or suspect they
have fibroids should have a full gynecological examination
prior choosing a treatment that is best for their
situation. If you have not had a recent examination,
below is a list of Gyn's who specialize in the management
of uterine fibroids.

Q: Why do gynecologists
and interventional radiologists work together?

A: In most cases,
a gynecologist will diagnose a patient with fibroids.
However, gynecologists do not perform every procedure
that can treat fibroids. While gynecologists can perform
hysterectomies and myomectomies, interventional radiologists
perform the UFE (uterine fibroid embolization) procedure.
Once diagnosed with fibroids, gynecologists can refer
a patient to an interventional radiologist to discuss
minimally invasive treatment options.

Is the doctor available to return
your phone calls or will a nurse or staff member
call you back?

Does the doctor generally do
a lot of referrals to other physicians/surgeons?

This list is just to get you started, be sure to add
other questions that are important to you. Don’t
ever be afraid to ask questions of your doctor or
any of their staff members. The more informed you
are, the better care you will receive from your doctor.

Locate a Fibroids Specialist

A visit with a physician who is educated
on the treatment of uterine fibroids is the best way to
determine if a UFE procedure is right for you.

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